CHIRON’S NEW FZ15 RANGE OFFERS 400 MM IN Y AND FAST FIVE-AXIS MACHINING IN A SINGLE SET-UP

Extended Y axis travels combined with cost-effective and efficient high-speed five-axis machining in a single set-up using up to 48 tools are just some of the market-leading features of the new Chiron FZ 15 Series of vertical machining centres now available from Chiron Werke UK of Southam.

Building on the classic Chiron VMC characteristics of high spindle speed, quick acceleration/deceleration, speedy tool change and fast chip-to-chip times, FZ 15 machines boast a torque rating of up to 180 Nm, and have been designed with dry machining specifically in mind.

Available in a range of variations - with fixed table (S version), with workpiece changer (W), with chain tool magazine (K) or as twin-spindle (DZ) versions - the FZ 15 range embraces X, Y and Z axes travels of 550 mm by 400 mm by 425 mm and up to 2,600 mm by 400 mm by 425 mm in long bed versions.

The facility for up to 48 tools (HSK 63) is available across the range, to complement Chiron's usual 20-tool basket-type changer, and for five-axis machining the NC rotary table can accommodate loads of up to 400 kgs within a swivelling range of +/- 100 deg.

Chip-to-chip performance across the range is 1.9 secs to 2.4 secs, and W models can change the workpiece (0 to 180 deg) in less than 3 secs. Through-tool coolant application is encouraged by the use of double-walled cabins and a fully encapsulated working zone fitted with automatic extraction system.

Like all Chiron VMCs, the FZ 15 Series has been designed around the latest high technology without compromise to performance. For example, standard spindle speeds and rapids are 10,500 revs/min and 40 m/min, respectively, offering an acceleration and deceleration of 0.5g.

High-speed versions feature spindle speeds of 12,000 revs/min and rapids of 60 m/min, while the High Speed Plus model boasts 20,000 revs/min, acceleration and deceleration of 1.0g.

Spindle drive ratings range from 14 kW to 28 kW.

Dry machining is facilitated by Chiron's new design of machine base with smooth, steep sides to ensure unobstructed chip flow.

In addition, the FZ 15 range represents the ultimate in low maintenance machining through the use of digital direct drives with absolute encoders, coolant-resistant seals, life-long greasing (stick-slip free anti-friction guideways), oil/mist-free pneumatics and the elimination of limit switches.